Best Kayaking/Paddling Spot
Many folks laud Jonathan Dickinson as a local gem for mountain biking, but it appears to be a favorite among locals for water activities too. It might have something to do with the access to the Loxahatchee River, Florida’s first federally designated Wild and Scenic River, and the incredible wildlife all around. 16450 SE Federal Hwy., Hobe Sound; 772.546.2771
Runners-Up
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, North Palm Beach
Halpatiokee Regional Park, Stuart
Best Biking Trails
With 10 miles of trails meandering through 700 acres of historic Florida nature (including Seminole battle sites, farmsteads, and more), Riverbend is the number-one destination for nature lovers on wheels. 9060 Indiantown Road, Jupiter; 561.741.1359
Runners-Up
Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Hobe Sound
Halpatiokee Regional Park, Stuart
Best Bait & Tackle Shop
Treasure Coast
A staple for local anglers since 1949, the guys and gals at the Snook know fishing better than anyone. 3595 NE Indian River Drive, Jensen Beach; 772.334.2145
Jupiter Area
Jupiter Bait and Tackle, 141 Center St., Jupiter; 561.746.2116
Runners-Up
Stuart Angler, Stuart
Juno Bait, Juno Beach
Best Beach
Jupiter Area
Juno Beach
One of the densest sea turtle nesting grounds in the world, Juno Beach is a favorite spot for both humans and turtles alike, protected and closely monitored by the wonderful Loggerhead Marinelife Center. Its famous pier is one of the most visited landmarks in the area—not only by tourists but by local surfers too. 14775 U.S. Hwy. 1, Juno Beach; 561.855.6185
Treasure Coast
NE Ocean Blvd., Stuart
Runners-Up
Bathtub Beach, Stuart
Best Public Golf
Jupiter Area
One of only two municipal courses in the nation designed by Jack Nicklaus, the challenging landscape keeps golfers coming back to try and master the links. 951 U.S. Hwy. 1, North Palm Beach; 561.691.3433
Treasure Coast
The Florida Club, 1380 SW Kanner Hwy., Stuart; 772.287.3680
Runners-Up
Abacoa Golf Club, Jupiter
Martin Downs Golf Club, Palm City
Best Private Golf
Treasure Coast
There’s no shortage of exclusive golf clubs in the area, but a membership to Mariner Sands in Stuart was voted the most coveted. With an 18-hole championship course designed by Tom Fazio and another by Frank Duane, amid acres of natural habitat and lush topography, it’s not surprising at all. 6500 SE Mariner Sands Drive, Stuart; 772.221.7300
Jupiter Area
Trump National Jupiter, 115 Eagle Tree Terr., Jupiter; 561.691.8700
Runners-Up
Floridian National Golf Club, Palm City
Spotlight: Bird Brain
The recent spike in birdwatching popularity among millennials and Gen Xers has made the nature-based hobby a hit with all ages. And thanks to our location within the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, Martin County has become a mecca for birding. “Martin County is wonderful for birding because birds need unspoiled land to thrive in, and our county has made it a priority to maintain natural habitats,” says John Nelson, chapter president of Audubon of Martin County. At Indian Riverside Park in Jensen Beach, Peck Lake Park in Hobe Sound, and Clifton S. Perry Beach on Hutchinson Island, you can catch site of the majestic osprey, a massive native raptor that resembles a bald eagle. And the Florida scrub jay, a bird exclusive to the Sunshine State with a striking blue coat, can be spied at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, which has recorded nearly 140 species of birds in the area including various species of woodpeckers. —Nila Do Simon
#1 Must-Visit Site for Newbies!
Serving as a beacon of light since 1860, the iconic red landmark literally rises above the community and is peekable from all over town. Climb to the top Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 500 Captain Armour’s Way, Jupiter; 561.747.8380
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